Programs

Reading Across Rhode Island (RARI)

For over 15 years, Rhode Island’s only One Book, One State program focuses on a single book selected to stimulate meaningful discussions across our state. Once the selection is made, bookstores, schools, and libraries spread the word and build up momentum toward our concluding event featuring sold out addresses by the author. The Center provides thousands of books at no cost to schools and readers to fuel discourse that flows from connecting over a shared story and then bolsters the program with an in depth resource guide compiled by experienced teachers. The Center integrates dramatic and visual arts to enrich the reading experience. RARI penetrates every city and town in Rhode Island across all generations and classes of citizens.

Kids Reading Across Rhode Island (KRARI)

Since 2009 The Center has partnered with Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services for a summer reading program focusing on children in grades 3-6. KRARI seeks to instill a lifelong love of reading while preventing summer learning loss. KRARI kicks off at the magnificent Rhode Island State House, hosting hundreds of young readers and their families, who receive the selected book at no cost and meet the author. For many of the students, it is their first encounter with a live author which makes a lasting impact. The program then launches into book groups, crafts, theater and visual arts events throughout the summer to stimulate young readers.

Letters About Literature

A national reading and writing contest sponsored by the Library of Congress and locally supported by The Center. Participants, ranging from grade 4-10, write a letter to an author whose work helped to change their personal view of themselves or the world.

Living Literature

A collective of Rhode Island based artists illuminate written works by creating concrete characters and events performed live for audiences.

Youth Poetry Ambassador

The Center partners with the Rhode Island Poet Laureate to select a RI high school student to serve as a youth poetry advocate to bring more poetry to our state’s youth and to inspire young people through example.